Chapter 26, Problem 18STP

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

The advantages and disadvantages of an exoskeleton.

Introduction :

Different animals have different features in their feeding process, development of their body, and the features that support the body structure.

Explanation of Solution

Exoskeleton is a hard, outer covering that provides support to the body. It is the tough or hard outer cover. It provides support to the soft tissue of the body, avoid loss of water, and also give protection against the predators. In some animals, it provides a place for muscle attachment. Arthropods have jointed appendages attached to their exoskeleton. This helps them to move in complex ways.

The exoskeleton of arthropods is made of non-living materials that cannot grow. Hence, they need to shed their exoskeleton to grow.

Conclusion

Exoskeleton is a hard, outer covering that provides support to the body of most arthopods. However, it needs to be shed by the animal to grow as it is made of non-living matter.